MIAMI, FL — A 27-year-old woman was arrested Saturday night at Miami International Airport after repeatedly entering a restricted area despite several warnings, according to the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.
The incident occurred shortly after 10 p.m. on August 9, near TSA Checkpoint 3 at 4200 NW 21st St. Authorities say Maria Paula Morais-Sousa approached the TSA exit lane and was immediately warned by an Allied Universal Security officer that the area was restricted.
Morais-Sousa initially left but returned five minutes later, once again attempting to enter the secure zone. Security informed her she must pass through the proper TSA screening or risk law enforcement intervention.
Instead of complying, Morais-Sousa reportedly stated she had just five minutes to catch her flight and said, “the sheriff can come get me,” before proceeding past the checkpoint.
The security officer lost visual contact while calling for assistance. Deputies quickly responded and located Morais-Sousa, arresting her without incident.
She was taken to the airport station where she was read her Miranda rights, signed a waiver form, and provided a written statement. She was then transported to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center (TGK).
The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office did not disclose the specific charges, but confirmed the investigation is ongoing.
